Monday, 7 September 2015

Inverted time code B in Labuan D8

The following picture postcards were part of a series of 14 from an unknown publisher, possibly commissioned in Singapore but published in Europe eg Germany. They probably dated from the early 1900s.

This is card number 5 showing the railway for the coal mines in Labuan. This exact photo is also found in John Dill Ross' book Sixty Years: Life and Adventure in the Far East but no year given. The back bears a typical message from a tourist and was sent to the USA bearing 3c in stamps for the prevailing Straits UPU postcard rate. Labuan became part of the Straits Settlements on 1 January 1907. Strange, considering it is nowhere near the Malacca Straits but one can say the same for Christmas Is and Cocos Is. It was obviously sanctioned due to administrative reasons.

This Labuan cds D8 was used between January 1910 and August 1913. The cancellation here of 25 MR 1910 is therefore an early example. The time codes ranged from A-E. E is quite difficult to find. In addition, the time code is sometimes omitted. Our example here has the uncommon inverted time code B.

I thought I must as well include the other cards that I have of this series. Both are unused. This is card number 7.

This card has number 8 at the back and is complemented by card number 9 which shows the rest of the scene at the Victoria Harbour in Labuan. This exact photo is also in John Dill Ross' book.

About Me

Originally from Sandakan, I have collected NB intermitently since chilhood but assembled the main part of my collection since arriving in the UK in 1975. I have always been fascinated by the use of 3 different written languages on a lot of NB stamps. Together with Labuan, this must be unique. I shall update my posts from time to time as I get further information. This is an evolving animal. I hope this blog is of some interest to everyone. I would like to aim some posts toward the novice in the hope that I could stir some interest in young Sabahans in this aspect of our history and culture. On the other hand, if my enthusiasm gets the better of me, my apologies for rambling on.
This is a middling collection which is still growing but should be achievable by most with time and dedication. Pergo et Perago "I proceed I strive and I accomplish". Any original images and information here should only used with permission and this source acknowledged. There is still a certain etiquette in this day and age.